MAIN Programme

Room Biser

Organisers: United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) together with DG REGIO

Key contributions from: AEBR, Resen and Prespa municipalities, EU & Global Missions Center, CIHEAM Bari, SWG Balkans

The EUSAIR macro-region faces growing territorial disparities, particularly in border and lagging regions, affecting income, access to services, innovation capacity and social cohesion. Addressing these challenges requires more effective alignment between territorial needs, governance structures, funding instruments and decision‑making across levels. 

This session explores how territorial development tools and place‑based approaches can strengthen EUSAIR governance and support more coherent cross‑border cooperation. By showcasing concrete practices and flagship initiatives, the discussion will focus on how to better connect strategic priorities with implementation, enhance the role of sub‑national actors, and improve coordination across policies and funds. The session aims to contribute to a more resilient, integrated and territorially balanced development of the EUSAIR macro‑region, with particular relevance for the post‑2027 perspective. 

Moderator:
– DG REGIO

Part 1: Presentation of practices in Serbia: from local socio-economic perspective to integrated territorial development and their replicability across the EUSAIR macro-region

UNOPS

– Ms. Michela Telatin, SEEMCO Director
– Ms. Vera Jovanović, SEEMCO Partnerships Specialist

Part 2: The Territorial Approaches – including bio-districts and similar models, as Drivers of the Mediterranean Diet Flagship

– CIHEAM Bari
– Standing Working Group – Balkans
– Bio-district from Serbia
– Bio-district from Italy

Part 3: The EUSAIR Cross-Pillar Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Flagship as a key instrument for unlocking and amplifying previous projects’ impact

– Resen Municipality, North Macedonia
– Prespa Municipality, Greece
– Pustec and Devol municipalities, Albania
– Helicas EGTC

Part 4: Developing a new cross-pillar territorial mission flagship for resilience and competitiveness

– Missions Centre
– Fushë Arrëz Municipality, Albania

Part 5: Breaking down border obstacles with b-solutions in the EUSAIR macro-region

– AEBR
– Spatial Foresight

Room Millenium 2

Room Skala 1

Organisers: EUSAIR Presidency of North Macedonia and EUSAIR Youth Council

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how public institutions design, deliver, and evaluate services — from port logistics and environmental monitoring to healthcare coordination and youth employment platforms. For the Adriatic-Ionian region, AI presents a dual prospect: an accelerant for institutional modernisation and macroregional convergence, or an amplifier of existing asymmetries in digital capacity, regulatory coherence, and public trust.

This session examines AI’s transformative potential across EUSAIR’s five Pillars — Sustainable Blue Economy, Connecting the Region, Environmental Quality, Sustainable Tourism and Improved Social Cohesion and horizontal topic Regional Research and Innovation Networks — while placing citizen satisfaction and institutional accountability at the centre of the analysis. It interrogates how AI-enabled public services can increase administrative efficiency and the responsiveness of institutions, while surfacing the governance questions that must be answered at the macroregional level: Who regulates? Who benefits? Who is left behind?

The session will be structured as a debate between sectoral professionals and youth voices, mapping both the promise and the governance gaps of AI deployment across the region’s key thematic areas.

Room Skala 1

Organisers: EUSAIR Presidency of North Macedonia and EUSAIR Youth Council

This session would explore how artificial intelligence can support EUSAIR Pillar 3 – Environmental Quality objectives by strengthening environmental quality and protecting terrestrial ecosystems in the Adriatic-Ionian region. While AI has environmental costs, it also offers opportunities through data-driven monitoring and smarter land management. By reducing resource waste and limiting pressure on natural habitats, AI-based solutions can contribute to biodiversity protection, climate resilience, and sustainable regional development, in line with Pillar 3 priorities.

Room Skala 1

Organisers: EUSAIR Presidency of North Macedonia and EUSAIR Youth Council

The Adriatic-Ionian region faces one of the most acute demographic challenges in the European Union and its enlargement neighbourhood: a sustained outflow of young people that is systematically undermining economic recovery, social cohesion, and the long-term viability of national labour markets. Current data indicate that in a significant number of countries in the region, the economic and social costs of youth emigration exceed the cumulative value of public investment in education, skills development, and employment activation measures.

This session examines the structural misalignments between existing educational frameworks, vocational and skills-building programmes, and the actual expectations and realities of young people entering regional labour markets. Drawing on macroregional evidence and youth perspectives, it questions whether current policy instruments are fit for purpose — and what a genuinely youth-centred redesign of human capital investment would require at both national and macroregional levels.

Retaining, attracting, and empowering young people in the region is not a long-term aspiration — it is an immediate structural necessity. This session aims to translate that urgency into actionable macroregional commitments.

Room Millenium 1

Room Millenium 1

Organiser: EUSAIR Presidency of North Macedonia 

As negotiations on the post-2027 EU framework accelerate, the question is no longer whether macro-regional cooperation matters for enlargement, but how it can be more strategically embedded in the EU’s future policy and financial architecture. By bringing together EU Member States and candidate countries on an equal footing, macro-regional strategies already deliver tangible results—supporting policy alignment, strengthening administrative capacities and advancing reforms across borders. 

At a time when many key European priorities require coordinated, transnational responses, these frameworks offer a tested and practical approach to bridging the gap between shared objectives and their implementation. This high-level panel will bring ministers together to take stock of ongoing developments and to discuss how macro-regional strategies can be better positioned within the evolving EU landscape, including the future Global Europe instrument. 

The discussion will focus on how to further strengthen their contribution to enlargement, enhance strategic coordination, and ensure that macro-regional cooperation is recognised and used as an integral tool for delivering reforms and investments across borders in support of the EU accession process. 

Room Millenium 1

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Room Millenium 2

Joint meeting of EUSAIR and EUSDR National Coordinators

Room Biser

Organiser: SP4EUSAIR – EUSAIR governance support project

This capacity building session is primarily targeted at Thematic Steering Group members and Pillar stakeholders, while also being open and relevant to newcomers to the Strategy.

The session introduces the EUSAIR cooperation model for the development of implementation formats (IFs), designed to strengthen coordination and effectiveness in translating strategic priorities into actionable initiatives. Building on SP4EUSAIR methodological work, the session aims to support stakeholders in navigating the early stages of IF development.

The session addresses a key gap in EUSAIR implementation: while a broad range of strategic ideas exists across the macro-region, there is a need for a more structured and coordinated approach to their collection and development. Ensuring that ideas are grounded in real challenges, stakeholder needs, and territorial specificities is essential for their relevance and impact. In this context, strengthening the ideation phase through systematic stakeholder engagement, communication, and outreach becomes critical for shaping high-quality and actionable IFs.

The session combines a concise presentation of the cooperation model with a panel discussion involving PCs and strategic stakeholders. It will explore how to generate high-quality strategic ideas, improve cross-pillar and multi-level cooperation, and define concrete next steps for further development of IFs while offering a clear methodological support.

Panellists:
– Ms. Iva Čaleta Pleša, Pillar Coordinator of Pillar 4, Ministry of Tourism and Sport, Croatia
– Mr. Iztok Škerlič, External expert for Pillar 3 (Facility Point project), Municipality of Izola, Slovenia
– STeP project representative (TBC)

Room Skala 1

Organiser: EUSAIR Pillar 2 – Connecting the Region, Energy

The session will address energy security challenges in the Adriatic-Ionian Region in the context of emerging threats and risks affecting global and regional energy markets. In recent months, energy markets have faced unprecedented turmoil. In a nightmare scenario the oil and LNG that flow through the Gulf have been interdicted by an extensive and destructive war. The fear? That all of this would result in skyrocketing energy prices that send the world and regional economies plummeting. In this context, countries are finding themselves into a new unpredictable situation and may design energy strategies to cope with the present threats and respond to the new risks. EUSAIR participating countries may wish to consider how increased energy cooperation and energy market integration might contribute to overcome the present energy crisis and build shared defences for the future. The present threats to energy security and the heavy reliance on imported oil and natural gas might lead to a renewed interest in energy policies and projects focusing on low-carbon energy and energy efficiency. In a letter to EU Member States of Monday 16 March 2026, the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged new efforts to «speed up the integration of low-carbon, homegrown energy» to reduce the vulnerability to fossil fuel price shocks. The session aims to explore and evaluate and energy options and projects for the Adriatic-Ionian Region, which might add flexibility and resilience into energy policies and programmes. Proposals will be made and discussed on how the EUSAIR can promote and contribute to implementing enhanced energy cooperation and common goals.

Key note speaker:
– Mr. Davide Tabarelli, President, Nomisma Energia, Italy

Panellists:
– Mr. Alberto Biancardi, Head, International and European Relations, National Manager of the Energy System (GSE SpA) Italy
– Mr. Guido Bortoni, President, CESI SpA, Italy
– Mr. Peter Hlusek, Gas Market Expert, Energy Community, Vienna
– Mr. Pedja Bulić, Team Member, South East European Consultants, The Republic of Serbia
– Mr. Goran Nikolovski, Pillar Coordinator of Pillar 2 Energy, Ministry of Energy, Mining and Minerals, Republic of North Macedonia

Room Skala 2

Organiser: EUSAIR Pillar 1 – Blue Sustainable Economy

This session will focus on how the use of local resources (blue assets), together with innovative blue entrepreneurship, can contribute to the sustainable development of local communities and the preservation of their population. It will highlight the need to promote actions for the further development of coastal and inland communities of Adriatic-Ionian Region – whether located by the sea, lagoons, rivers or lakes – ensuring that local populations are not only able to remain, but also to thrive. A significant percentage of the population of Adriatic-Ionian Region’s coastal communities belong to the most vulnerable social groups, and often are fisheries’ dependent, with fisheries and aquaculture having traditionally a major social and cultural impact. Nevertheless, the region is rich in natural resources and biodiversity and an alternative use of its natural resources (like its lagoons and lakes) under the blue sustainable economy concept, can improve the regional development, having positive effects on the local population, the environment, the local economy, and the socio-economic development of the region, as far as we considered them “assets” and not “obstacles”.

Panellists:
– Dr. Dushica Ilikj – Boeva, PSI Hydrobiological Institute – Ohrid, North Macedonia: Safeguarding the Endemic Lake Ohrid Trout (Salmo letnica) – An Integrated Program for Artificial Spawning, Breeding, and Population Restocking.
– Mr. Zoran Martinovski, PRIME BLUE Institute, North Macedonia: Local development through innovation and start-ups in fresh-water Blue Economy sectors.
– Ms. Anastasija Katić, EUSAIR Youth Council, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Thoughts, views, and proposals of the next generation, on the effort to continue living and work in the region.

Room Skala 1

Organiser: EUSAIR Facility Point governance support project

The EUSAIR Newcomers Workshop is designed to provide structured onboarding for newcomers across all EUSAIR governance bodies. This interactive workshop introduces the key elements of EUSAIR implementation, including its governance structure, roles and responsibilities, and available support mechanisms. It also offers a platform for exchange with experienced EUSAIR members, facilitating faster integration, a clearer understanding of the Strategy, and sustained engagement of newcomers in EUSAIR activities.

The session is dedicated for newcomers to the EUSAIR Strategy in 2025-2026, including new National Coordinators, new Thematic Steering Group members, new Facility Point representatives, new EUSAIR Youth Council members, as well as new representatives of the StEP Project and the SP4EUSAIR Project.

Room Millenium 1

Organiser: EUSAIR POPRI

Social entrepreneurship stands at the intersection of innovation, responsibility, and social change. It demonstrates how entrepreneurial thinking can be used not only to build businesses, but also to address some of society’s most pressing challenges—from environmental sustainability to social inclusion and community development.

By bringing together young people, entrepreneurs, and an EUSAIR Pillar 5 (Improved Social Cohesion) member, this panel will explore how ideas can be transformed into meaningful impact. The discussion will highlight the role of youth as drivers of change, the experience of entrepreneurs who are building ventures with purpose, and the perspective of policy and international cooperation represented through Pillar 5.
Panellists will share concrete examples of social ventures, discuss the main challenges in launching and scaling impact-driven initiatives, and highlight opportunities for young people to turn ideas into sustainable projects through collaboration, funding, and mentorship.

Welcome note:
– Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, Republic of Slovenia (TBC)
– Mr. Andrej Lepavcov – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Skopje or Zuica Zmejkovska, EU funds National Coordinator

Panellists:
– POPRI participant, a social entrepreneur idea (TBC)
– POPRI participant, a social entrepreneur idea (TBC)
– Ms. Elizabeta Jovanovska, CEO and Founder of company Brand Solution
– Ms. Martina Klapan Štambuk, TSG5 EUSAIR
– Mr. Blendi Hodai, Co-chair of EUSAIR Youth Council

Room Biser

Organiser: EUSAIR Pillar 2 – Connecting the Region, Transport

This session will focus on boosting the uptake of Sustainable Urban Mobility Policies in Adriatic-Ionian cities. Regulation (EU) 2024/1679 assigns specific responsibilities to EU Member States for the development, coordination, and monitoring of urban nodes within the TEN-T network, recognizing their strategic importance for ensuring an efficient, sustainable, and integrated European transport system. In this context, sustainable urban mobility represents a central objective of EU urban and transport policies, aimed at reducing congestion, accidents, and air pollution while improving the overall quality of life in urban areas. Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) provide a comprehensive framework for achieving these goals by promoting environmentally friendly transport solutions, supporting innovative mobility approaches, and strengthening the capacity of local authorities and policymakers. The session will aim to present best practices in sustainable urban mobility across Adriatic-Ionian (AI) cities, highlighting the Western Balkans’ commitment to modern, interconnected, and sustainable transport systems and discuss key barriers to the implementation of innovative mobility solutions and the adoption of EU environmental and sustainability standards, particularly in relation to Chapter 27 (Environment) and Chapter 14 (Transport Policy) of the EU acquis. It will also promote Macro-Regional Synergies and identify opportunities for cross-border cooperation and joint pilot projects to ensure harmonized mobility systems across the region. It will stimulate discussion around the following themes: the importance of investing in public transport infrastructure (e.g. tram and metro) and properly supporting the management costs, barriers to the adoption of Mobility as a Service (MaaS), and its role in fostering efficient, integrated, and user-centric urban transport systems; and cycling infrastructure as a means to promote healthy, low-emission mobility and align the region with EU priorities on sustainable and alternative transport modes.

Panellists:
– Representative of the city of Skopje, City of Skopje, North-Macedonia (TBC)
– Mr. Ajdin Džananović, Faculty of Traffic and Communication at the University of Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina
– Ms. Marijana Radovanović, Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, Republic of Serbia
– Mr. Franc Žepič, Ministry of Infrastructure, Slovenia
– Contribution from Mr. Francesco Moroni, EUSAIR Youth Council, San Marino and Mr. Klajdi Kaziu, EUSAIR Youth Council, Albania

Room Millenium 2

Organiser: EUSAIR Facility Point governance support project

This workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of communication experts and other EUSAIR members to promote EUSAIR in a more strategic, coherent, and impactful manner. It will focus on strategic messaging, result oriented storytelling, and effective communication of EUSAIR achievements, with particular attention to reaching diverse stakeholders and the wider public. The workshop will also provide practical insights and tools to support consistent and engaging communication across the EUSAIR governance framework.

The session is dedicated to communication experts from Facility Point project partners, as well as other EUSAIR members interested in strengthening their knowledge and competencies in the field of strategic communication.

Room Millenium 1

Organiser: EUSAIR POPRI

The EUSAIR POPRI competition offers a remarkable platform for young visionaries to present their ideas and contribute to positive societal change. By promoting sustainability, encouraging circular economy principles, and supporting innovative responses to real-world challenges, the competition empowers young people to transform creativity into impact. These ambitious participants are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also changemakers of today, bringing forward ideas with personal, national, and global significance that contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future.
The participants’ business ideas will be assessed by a distinguished jury of experts who will also provide valuable feedback to support the further development of their projects. The jury for the high school teams consists of Jana Birsa, Mirjana Josifoska, and Oliver Nikushev, while the university teams will be evaluated by Matjaž Kljajič, Elizabeta Jovanovska, and Dejan Zlatkovski. Through their experience and insights, the jury will play an important role in encouraging and guiding the next generation of entrepreneurs.

9.00 – 9.15 Short introduction from moderator

Welcome note:
– Ms. Tanja Kožuh, Director of Primorska Technology Park, Slovenia
– Ms. Andrijana Bogdanovska, Director of Center for Knowledge Management, Nort Macedonia

Motivational discussion: Mr. Filip Kostadinoski, CEO and Co-Founder of FIXIGO and Ms. Ana Vlahov, ZICER.

9.15-10.30
Presentation of business ideas – EUSAIR High School students
/Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, San Marino, Slovenia/

10.30-10.45 Short Break

10.45- 12.30
Presentation of business ideas – EUSAIR University students
/Albania, Greece, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, San Marino, Slovenia/

12.30 – 13.30 Lunch Break, Holiday Inn hotel

Room Skala 1

Organiser: EUSAIR Pillar 3 – Environmental Quality

Pillar 3 – Environmental Quality of the EUSAIR Strategy responds to shared environmental challenges through cross‑border cooperation and an inter‑sectorial approach, that no country can solve alone. Reflecting this spirit of collaboration, the TSG 3 session is organised in an inter‑pillar format, with active contributions from other pillars that have generously joined the discussion.
A core message of this session is that land and sea must be planned interdisciplinary and together. From river basin management upstream to marine conservation downstream, environmental processes are interconnected. Through cooperation, dialogue and shared responsibility, Pillar 3 contributes to a healthier environment, safer communities and a more sustainable future for all citizens of the macro region. The Prespa–Ohrid transboundary system illustrates how fragmented governance, unsustainable use of water resources and climate change pressures undermine ecosystem services, calling for strengthened cooperation, nature-based solutions and basin-scale approaches.
Ecosystem based spatial planning provides a strategic framework to balance environmental protection with blue growth, while reducing spatial conflicts among key sectors such as tourism, fisheries and aquaculture, offshore and onshore energy, and land and maritime transport. In the Mediterranean, Maritime Spatial Planning is guided by EU and United N ations Enviromental Programe /Mediterranian Action Plan frameworks and supported by regional cooperation mechanisms. This requires balancing ecological, economic and social interests, improving coherence between terrestrial and marine planning—particularly in coastal areas—cooperating with neighboring countries, actively involving stakeholders such as fishermen, NGOs and the public, and using the best available data through shared information systems. The good practice from the Sava River Basin (SRB), including the Sava Flood Forecasting and Warning System (SFFWS), as an example of regional cooperation enhancing climate resilience.
The session will explore both general concepts and their practical application in the South Adriatic. The Southern Adriatic–Ionian Strait EBSA (SAIS EBSA) pilot illustrates both opportunities and challenges, including the need for stronger economic data to ensure fair and balanced planning.
Finally, the session will discuss how to operationalise SAIS EBSA within national MSP processes and across EUSAIR pillars, strengthening governance, improving planning tools, and enhancing regional cooperation to achieve the 2030 biodiversity and sustainability targets.

Key note speakers:
– Mr. Peter Mackelworth, Blue World Institute, Croatia – What is next for the SAIS-EBSA?
– Ljupka Zajkov, Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning, North Macedonia – Water basin management and planning in North Macedonia – implications for downstream conservation and planning measures for the SAIS EBSA

Panellists:
– Moderator: Mr Peter Mackelworth, BWI, Croatia
– Mr. Mitja Bricelj, PhD, Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning, Slovenia
– Mr. Senad Oprašić, PhD, Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations, Bosnia and Herzegovina
– Mr. Samo Grošelj, International Sava River Basic Commission, Croatia
– Ms. Theodora Koutsogaki, Ministry of Rural Development and Food, Directorate General of Fisheries, Greece
– Ms. Iva Čaleta Pleša, Pillar Coordinator of Pillar 4, Ministry of Tourism and Sport, Croatia
– Ms. Carole Martinez, Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas Network (MedPAN), France
– IUCN, Regional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia representative (TBC)
– Ms. Giulia Riedo, Policy Manager at WWF Italy

Room Skala 2

Organiser: EUSAIR Youth Council

This session explores how youth participation in EUSAIR can move beyond formal involvement toward meaningful influence in addressing key regional challenges. It contributes to the broader EUSAIR agenda by strengthening inclusive governance and reinforcing the role of young people as partners in shaping sustainable and resilient macro-regional development.

The discussion will combine the presentation of the EUSAIR Youth Council Position Paper with an exchange among youth representatives from different macro-regional strategies. It will focus on both the quality of youth participation in decision-making and the pressing issues young people face across the region, including democratic disengagement, limited opportunities, and socio-economic challenges, while highlighting how youth can proactively contribute to solutions.

The session targets policymakers, EUSAIR governance actors, EU institutions, civil society organisations, youth representatives, and stakeholders engaged in regional development and democratic participation.

Opening Remarks
– Mr. Blendi Hodai, Co-chair of EUSAIR Youth Council, presents the Position Paper of the EYC to the audience.

Panellists:
– Ms. Ankica Sokolic, EUSAIR Youth Council representative, North Macedonia
– Ms. Lejla Hadžijusufović, EUSAIR Youth Council representative, Montenegro
– Mr. Dorian Ugo, EUSALP Youth Council representative, France
– Ms. Sára Herianová, EUSDR Youth Council representative, Czech Republic
– Mr. Kyriakos Kourtidis, EUSBSR Youth Council representative, Greece/Poland

Room Biser

Organiser: EUSAIR Presidency of North Macedonia and EUSAIR StEP governance support project

Like the other MRSs, EUSAIR has no dedicated budget and its implementation depends on alignment with EU and international funding instruments. The session brings together three converging challenges:

(1) the MFF 2028–2034 is now being programmed — the programming of the NRPPs (including the Interreg Plan), Global Europe and the Western Balkans Reform Agendas will determine whether EUSAIR priorities are fully embedded or remain invisible;

(2) analysis of IPA III 2025–2027 programmes and Western Balkans Reform Agendas (StEP WP5, shows that EUSAIR alignment is currently narrative rather than operational,, with the six IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation programmes showing weak EUSAIR alignment. WP5 has developed Indicator Passports that pair IPA III Results Framework indicators with EUSAIR Action Plan actions, providing a practical tool and guidance to make alignment measurable and reportable without new regulations;

(3) a structured Financial Dialogue is needed to build a pipeline of bankable EUSAIR Flagship projects and connect promoters with financial institutions. The session presents the StEP Financial Dialogue methodology and a roadmap toward the EUSAIR Financial Facility, while the SP4EUSAIR Funding Report provides a complementary and immediately operational tool. A live demonstration of the AI-powered support agent in the StEP Stakeholder Platform shows how artificial intelligence can map stakeholder knowledge and support proposal development. The EUSDR experience — Active Embedding, MA Networks, Seed Money Facility — provides a directly applicable model.

Room Skala 1

Organiser: EUSAIR Pillar 5 – Improved Social Cohesion

This session will focus on how targeted investments in youth skills and entrepreneurship can strengthen competitiveness and long-term resilience across the EUSAIR Region. Emphasis will be placed on bridging the gap between education systems, labour market demands and innovation ecosystems, with the aim of creating more inclusive and sustainable opportunities for young people.

The discussion will highlight concrete implementation under Pillar 5, with a specific focus on two flagship initiatives: the EUSAIR Skills Alliance for the Future and the Youth Entrepreneurship Alliance. Special attention will be given to the POPRI Youth initiative as a practical and scalable example of fostering entrepreneurial mindsets, skills development and cross-border cooperation among youth.

The panel will explore how macro-regional cooperation can better align education and training systems with labour market needs, how to support young people in developing entrepreneurial competences and accessing opportunities and how successful initiatives can be scaled up and replicated across the region. The session will also provide a comprehensive understanding of the youth entrepreneurship support cycle, linking European Commission frameworks and funding opportunities with dedicated support organisations that guide young entrepreneurs from idea development to market entry, and the real-life journey of a successful young entrepreneur.

Bringing together perspectives from the European Commission, innovation support organisations such as Technology Park Ljubljana, and young entrepreneur, the session will connect policy, practice and the success stories of young entrepreneurs as well as will actively engage participants through audience polling and open dialogue, encouraging exchange of practical experiences among participants.

Moderator
– Ms. Diana Hećimović, Pillar Coordinator of Pillar 5, Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy, Croatia

Panellists
– Ms. Tanja Kožuh , CEO of Primorska Technology Park
– Mr. Julien De Beys, Policy Officer for Inclusive Entrepreneurship in DG Employment Unit G.3
– Mr. Blendi Hodai, Co-chair of EUSAIR Youth Council
– Mr. Niko Bucalo, Young entrepreneur, COO of Textiloop

Room Biser

Organiser: EUSAIR Presidency of North Macedonia, EUSAIR Facility Point governance support project, and Centre of European Perspective

The EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR) provides a well-established framework for structured cooperation across EU Member States and candidate countries. In this context, EU enlargement is not a separate objective, but an integral and already operational dimension of EUSAIR. The Strategy contributes to enlargement by: fostering policy alignment through joint thematic work, strengthening administrative and institutional capacities, enabling peer learning and exchange among practitioners, supporting the development of strategic projects and flagships and facilitating multi-level cooperation, including at subnational level.

Over the years, EUSAIR has demonstrated its ability to deliver concrete, practice-oriented support to candidate countries, complementing formal accession instruments by providing a platform where cooperation happens on equal footing.

Building on this strong foundation, ongoing analytical work supported by the EUSAIR Facility Point (in cooperation with the Centre for European Perspective, Slovenia) is helping to identify additional areas where this support can be further strengthened, including through more systematic knowledge exchange and capacity-building formats.

Against this backdrop, the session will focus on what EUSAIR is already delivering, while also exploring how its role can be further reinforced in a pragmatic and results-oriented way.

The session will:
– Demonstrate concretely how EUSAIR already supports EU enlargement through its Pillars, governance, and flagship initiatives
– Showcase tangible results and success stories from candidate countries and cross-border cooperation
– Highlight the added value of macro-regional cooperation in supporting policy alignment and implementation on the ground
– Identify key areas where EUSAIR support can be further strengthened, building on existing practices and emerging needs
– Engage stakeholders in shaping next steps, ensuring a bottom-up, practice-driven approach

Room Skala 1

Organiser: EUSAIR Pillar 4 – Sustainable Tourism

The objective of the session is to present, to share and reflect on the Pillar 4 Sustainable Tourism activities in line with the revised Action Plan adopted in May 2025 in the period of one year.

The proposed session is in line with 2026 edition of EUSAIR Forum focusing on advancing the implementation of the revised Action Plan.
The work on revising EUSAIR Action Plan was demanding and challenging that resulted in ambitious Plan for the Strategy. Thematic Pillar 4 Sustainable Tourism stayed on the path of sustainability and expanded into three distinct topics—Facilitating digital & green transition of the tourism & cultural heritage offer, Preparing for the future: knowledge, skills & management, and Greening of tourism products & services.
The plan positions Pillar 4 within an integrated and transversal approach.

The updated plan explicitly acknowledges the interdependence of pillars and territories (coast–hinterland–mountain–rural), the demographic, economic, and service access gaps across the macro region, and the need to align with EU Green/Digital transitions and UN SDGs while supporting enlargement of EU country candidates.

Panellists:
– Mr. Fotis Vlachos, Pillar 4-member, Hellenic Ministry of Culture, Directorate of International Relations and EU, Department of International Relations: The perception of Mediterranean in the EUSAIR communities
– Mr. Adnan Solak, EUSAIR Youth Council member: Tourism in the Adriatic and Ionian Region through the lens of Youth: What kind of tourism young people want to develop?
– Ms. Linda Grebac, Director of Tourist Board of Kaštelir-Labinci County, Croatia: Rural Tourism in the EUSAIR communities: What makes Kaštelir-Labinci village the Best Tourism Village in 2025, nominated by UN Tourism?

Room Millenium 1

Organiser: EUSAIR POPRI

Welcome note:
– Mr. Gilles Kittel, Team Leader – Instrument for Pre-Accession, Enlargement Negotiations and EUSAIR at European Commission
– Ms. Tanja Kožuh, CEO Primorski tehnološki park, Slovenia (2 min)
– Mr. Paolo Galetta, EU funds National Coordinator, Italy

Announcement of best business ideas of High-school students and University students & award ceremony. Hifh-school students will be awarded by Ms. Tanja Kožuh, Director of Primorska Technology Park and Ms. Ana Mrzlikar, SPIRIT, both from Slovenia, University students by Mr. Paolo Galetta, EU funds National Coordinator, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Italy and Mr. Gilles Kittel, Team Leader – Instrument for Pre-Accession, Enlargement Negotiations and EUSAIR at European Commission

Room Millenium 1

The sightseeing tour will be hosted by the Presidency.
The tour is optional, however registration is required.

Further information, such as the itinerary and other details, regarding the sightseeing tour will follow shortly.

Room Skala 2

Organisers: Audit Authority for Audit of Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) in North Macedonia

This panel is a closed panel where Audit Authorities, National Authorising Officers Support Departments (or Unit), Managing Authorities and Central Finance and Contracts Units will discuss the following key themes: 

• Transition to Performance-Based Delivery: Moving from cost-based models to mechanisms focused on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and new management and control systems. 
• Simplification & Flexible Financing: Expanding the use of Simplified Cost Options (SCOs) and Financing Not Linked to Costs (FNLC) for both projects and technical assistance. 

• Lessons from EU Instruments: Insights from the RRF, the Reform Agenda, and other regional tools. 

• Addressing ECA Critical Opinions:  

• Anti-Fraud & Control: Addressing deficiencies in detection and inconsistent data quality. 

• Performance Tracking: Moving beyond “implementation-only” tracking to assess true value for money. 

• Milestone Clarity: Defining targets more precisely to reduce error risks. 

• Timely Completion: Mitigating implementation delays ahead of the August 2026 deadline. 

• Double Funding Risks: Managing overlaps between the RRF and other EU instruments. 

Moderator:

– DG REGIO

Room Skala 2

Organisers: Audit Authority for Audit of Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) in North Macedonia

This panel is a public panel where the participants of the closed section Audit Authorities, National Authorising Officers Support Departments (or Unit), Managing Authorities and Central Finance and Contracts Units will discuss the main take aways regarding the following key themes: 

• Transition to Performance-Based Delivery: Moving from cost-based models to mechanisms focused on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and new management and control systems. 
• Simplification & Flexible Financing: Expanding the use of Simplified Cost Options (SCOs) and Financing Not Linked to Costs (FNLC) for both projects and technical assistance. 

• Lessons from EU Instruments: Insights from the RRF, the Reform Agenda, and other regional tools. 

• Addressing ECA Critical Opinions:  

• Anti-Fraud & Control: Addressing deficiencies in detection and inconsistent data quality. 

• Performance Tracking: Moving beyond “implementation-only” tracking to assess true value for money. 

• Milestone Clarity: Defining targets more precisely to reduce error risks. 

• Timely Completion: Mitigating implementation delays ahead of the August 2026 deadline. 

• Double Funding Risks: Managing overlaps between the RRF and other EU instruments. 

Moderator:

– DG REGIO

Room Millenium 1

Organiser: Forum of the Adriatic and Ionian Chambers of Commerce (AIC)

Within the framework of the EUSAIR Annual Forum 2026, Forum AIC intends to organise a dedicated thematic session aimed at presenting ongoing initiatives and policy developments related to Green Public Procurement and circular economy in the Adriatic–Ionian region.

The session will focus in particular on:
– the strategic role of Green Public Procurement as a driver for circular
– economy policies
– the presentation of key activities and tools developed within the GPP2ADRION project
– the exchange of European and macro-regional best practices in sustainable procurement
– the introduction of emerging instruments supporting circular value chains,
– including the Digital Product Passport (DPP)
– the development of transnational cooperation on GPP involving institutions and stakeholders from the Adriatic-Ionian region.

The event will contribute to strengthening dialogue between EUSAIR governance actors, public authorities, economic stakeholders and project partners, fostering a shared understanding of the opportunities offered by sustainable public procurement in the macro-region.

Room Skala 2

Organiser: Interreg IPA ADRION Programme

European integration is a goal that must be pursued from multiple fronts. Energy consumption is a crucial one, as it affects the daily life of citizens, from ensuring comfortable homes to enabling work, mobility, and connectivity. In recent years, the energy sector has come under increasing pressure due to global contrasts, making it clear that international relations and cooperation must be strengthened. Across the Adriatic–Ionian Region, organizations are joining forces to overcome physical and regulatory barriers and to jointly support the transition towards renewable energy.

In particular, Interreg Programmes have represented a driving force for innovation and the dissemination of good practices across Europe for over 35 years. Thanks to cooperation among territories, regions, and cities, they foster the development of shared solutions generated through dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of knowledge.

Through the direct voices of the funded projects, this session will showcase the most promising transnational solutions in the field of energy systems innovation and renewable energy funded by IPA ADRION Programme. The panel will offer a comprehensive overview of practices and approaches ranging from the use of artificial intelligence to support digital twin technologies, to the creation of energy communities in ports, and the strengthening of offshore wind networks.

The session will bring together EUSAIR experts, IPA ADRION programme and projects to provide inspiration and practical examples. It will present the Programme’s commitment to closing knowledge gaps and accelerating EU integration through the transition to clean energy.

Moderator:

– Katerina Topalova, Macedonian Radio Television (MRTV)

Welcome speech:

– Barbara Di Piazza, Head of IPA ADRION Joint Secretariat

Keynote speech:

– Mr. Sergio Garribba. EUSAIR TSG2 Pillar Coordinator for Energy

Panellists:

– Prof. Vladimir Atanasovski, Cyril and Methodius University of Skopje, Project GOTOTWIN, AI and advanced technology for renewable energy

– Urša Opara Krašovec, University of Ljubljana, Project FENESTRAE, Energy savings of the buildings sector

– Alberto Cozzi, Port of Trieste, Project ADRIREC, Energy Community in Ports

– Prof. Neven Duic, Project ADRIONWIND (tbc), Developing a competitive offshore wind energy sector

– Mr. Alberto Cozzi, Port of Trieste, Project ADRIREC, Energy Community in Ports

– Energy expert (TBC) Challenges and opportunities in the region, some perspectives for the future

– Davide Tabarelli, President of NE-Nomisma Energia 

Closing session:

– Evgenija Serafimovska Kirkovski, Head of NIPAC Office, Ministry of European Affairs

Room Biser

Organiser: UniAdrion

This session, organised by UniAdrion, focuses on the civic engagement of young people in the Adriatic–Ionian Region and their role in shaping a more inclusive, democratic and sustainable future. Bringing together university staff from the UniAdrion network and young representatives from youth and students’ organisations operating in the area, the discussion will explore the needs, challenges and opportunities related to youth participation in university, civic and public life.

Starting from existing knowledge and experience, the panel will also highlight good practices and lessons learned from projects and initiatives already implemented in the Region, including experiences such as ESN AIR, which have successfully promoted youth participation and active citizenship. Building on these insights, the discussion aims to identify concrete ways to strengthen youth civic engagement, enhance the dialogue between institutions and young people, and ensure that youth voices are heard and effectively contribute to the future development of the Adriatic–Ionian Region.